Be supportive.

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again… QUITTING IS HARD. STAY POSITIVE. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

This is not your challenge.

Lifestyle changes can be difficult. Respect the fact that the quitter is in charge of his or her progress.

Talk about it.

Don’t just ask if they’ve used tobacco today - ask them how they are feeling and let them know that you’re ready to talk whenever they need it.

Distractions work.

Having gum, mints, hard candy, or healthy snacks on-hand can help alleviate the urge to smoke or chew. Suggest activites to take their mind off smoking. Go for a walk, a bike ride, or a drive, watch a movie, play a game, or start a project together.

Remove the evidence.

Get rid of all tobacco products, lighters, ash trays, or anything that might remind the smoker of smoking.

Be 100% tobacco-free.

Make your home and car tobacco-free environments. No smoking or chewing - period.

Make a fresh start.

Wash clothes, bedding, drapes, and carpets to help get rid of the smell. Use air fresheners or diffuse essential oils - after 48 hours of being tobacco-free, a smoker’s sense of smell will improve.

Help out.

Stress is often a trigger. Offer to lighten the load by watching the kids, running an errand, helping with household chores, or cooking a meal.

Stay positive.

Crabby, snappy, and grumpy will be out in full force, especially during the first 2 weeks of a quit attempt. Don’t judge, lecture, nag, tease, or scold, and don’t offer advise (see: #1 above). Let them know you believe in them and ask how you can help.

Slips happen.

Quitting takes practice. They haven’t failed. Remind them of all the reasons they want to quit. Encourage them to try again - it will get easier!

Celebrate!

Every hour, day, or week that goes by is a BIG deal. Let them know you are proud of every minute they are tobacco-free!